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RESOURCE BOOK
Prepared by Kent State Universitys Cleveland Urban Design Collaborative 1309 Euclid Ave., Suite 200 Cleveland, Ohio 44115 www.cudc.kent.edu & Neighborhood Progress, Inc. 1956 West 25th St., Suite 200 Cleveland, Ohio 44113 www.neighborhoodprogress.org Editor Lilah Zautner, Sustainability Manager Neighborhood Progress Design Gauri Torgalkar Kent State Universitys Cleveland Urban Design Collaborative In collaboration with The City of Cleveland January 2011
CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................. 2 THINGS TO CONSIDER ........................................................................................ 5 VACANT LAND RE-USE STRATEGIES:
VINEYARD
10
ORCHARD
12
POCKET PARK
MARKET GARDEN
14
NATIVE PLANTING
COMMUNITY GARDEN
16
SIDEYARD EXPANSION
18
20
NEIGHBORHOOD PATHWAY
22
24
26
RAIN GARDEN
28
30
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the world of whats possible on your street and in the city of Cleveland! Join the movement of individuals and groups who are turning vacant lots into community projects that beautify neighborhoods, feed people, capture stormwater and teach about the environment. The fact that you have opened this book means you are one of those special people who want to make a difference in your neighborhood. Whether you are already a busy community leader or are new to this kind of thing, there is a place for you and there are people and organizations who want to help you bring your vision to life. The purpose of this book is twofold: 1) To put ideas and helpful information into the hands of people who can and will change the city for the better, and 2) To introduce you to some local heroes who are leading the way - greening, gardening, and growing produce all over the city. They are young, old, black, white, native Clevelanders, recent immigrants, east siders and west siders. There are people like Curtis Banks, who has lived in the Hough neighborhood for 40 years, since he was a baby, and was inspired to follow in his fathers footsteps by creating a new pocket park on Kosciuszko Avenue. He says When I was a little kid, there was a house torn down next to us. My father being just one generation removed from sharecropping, loved to play in the dirt. He would plant gardens every year and the food he grew in the garden helped to feed our family. He often grew more than we could consume, so he would give stuff away to people who were in need. So it became part of me to want to carry on that tradition of gardening. And there is Todd Alexander, who with friends Sarah Sampsell and Matthew Pietro are creating an eastside and a west side market garden (growing fruits and vegetables for sale) in the Central and Ohio City neighborhoods. They are putting their entrepreneurial spirits and recent college degrees in sustainability into action and helping to address food deserts where fresh fruits and vegetables are limited. And there is teacher Michelle DeBock from Watterson Lake Elementary School in the Detroit Shoreway neighborhood, who is creating a learning garden on a vacant lot next to the school where students can observe butterflies and birds and see how food is grown. With a dozen or more raised bed gardens that will have themes like Peter Rabbit and Salsa, she is creating a
garden that reflects the different cultures in her school and draws students into observing nature in a fun way. She says Im hoping that the kids start to gain more respect for their environment. I hope they can be proud of their efforts and say - Wow! Look what we have done to this vacant lot. You can learn more about land reuse projects and many other local heroes on ReImaginingCleveland.org. There are recorded interviews with some project leaders and photos that show the fruits of their labor. We also invite you to post your own projects there adding to the tapestry of greening efforts around the city and the people who are making them happen.
When you look at a city, its like reading the hopes, aspirations and pride of everyone who built it. - Hugh Newell Jacobsen
Photographs and images for this publication were provided by: Greta DeMeyer Greg Donley Joyce Hairston Susan Kaeser Helen Liggett Keep Indianapolis Beautiful, Inc. Marilyn Polivka Maurice Small ReImagining Cleveland pilot project leaders Bobbi Reichtell Lilah Zautner Illustrations for this publication, unless otherwise noted, are created by Kent States Cleveland Urban Design Collaborative
4
THINGS TO CONSIDER
SOIL CONDITIONS
Because vacant land in cities has been used before, the condition of that land may be adversely impacted. Depending on what the previous use was, there may be issues such as pollutants, debris, and compacted (compressed) soils. Here are ways to remedy or avoid these issues:
1. POLLUTANTS You should have soil tests performed to determine if your site is safe to work on. Soil
testing should be done before you commit to buying or leasing a site. The OSU Extension offers soil tests for a minimal cost that will determine levels of common contaminants. You can also collect the soil yourself and send it to the University of Massachusetts for testing (see Resources page for contact information). Soil tests cost between $10 and $15. Do not select a site that was previously used for industry, a dry cleaner, or a gas station unless you are working with a knowledgeable agency to help assess risks.
2. DEBRIS Before 1996, demolition meant knocking the house into its foundation. Generally if there
is a demolished house under the ground, you will see a depression on the surface. Call the Department of Building and Housings Demolition Bureau at (216) 664-2959 and ask when the building was demolished to see if this could be an issue for you. Be sure to take appropriate precautions when removing debris from a lot. If you are working with volunteers, be sure that they understand safety guidelines and potential risks.
5
A simple solution for building a garden on a lot with buried debris or excessive tree roots is to avoid digging into the ground and use raised beds instead. If your budget allows and the investment makes sense, professional site clearing and grading services are available. Site grading varies in cost according to grading specifications, lot size and existing conditions.
3. COMPACTED SOILS Compacted soils make it difficult for plants to grow. They are caused by heavy
machinery previously putting weight on the soil. To tell if your soil is compacted, dig a small hole about 6 deep and pour water into it. If the water sits in the hole without absorbing after a minute or so, then the soil is either compacted or has high clay content. Depending on the nature of your project, this may be a problem. Tilling the soil and/or adding topsoil, compost or soil amendments could remedy this problem. A simple solution for gardens would be to construct raised beds.
ACCESSING WATER
For nearly all projects, water is required for at least the first year or growing season. If drought tolerant plants native to Ohio are used, water wont be required after the plants are established. All food production gardens will require water on a regular basis during every growing season. Where possible, rainwater from nearby roofs and hard surfaces should be captured using rain barrels and cisterns and used to water your garden. Generally, a second source of water is required. You can ask a neighbor for access to their hose or apply for a water permit from the Water Department. Depending on the type of project, you may qualify for a low cost fire hydrant permit or you may need to install an underground water line and a water meter. To inquire about hydrant permits in the City of Cleveland call the Department of Community Development, (216) 664-4059.
PERMITS
In the City of Cleveland and most other cities and towns, the municipality regulates land use and building codes. Most cities have zoning rules about where parks, gardens and other greenspaces can be located. Also, most have building codes that mandate the type and location of out-buildings, fences, compost bins and signs. Before planning & designing your land reuse project, research local building and zoning codes on-line or in person at the municipal building & housing department. Before doing certain types of construction, you are required by law to apply for and receive a permit before performing the work. The permissions process gives the city
6
an opportunity to check to make sure that what you are proposing meets all health and safety codes. The Board of Zoning Appeals can grant variances to the building code in some cases. Permits or licenses are required for building fences, buildings, hoop houses, sheds, greenhouses, sitting walls, parking, driveways, disconnecting downspouts, accessing hydrant water, installing signage and raising farm animals. The permit process will generally require a drawing or set of drawings. The complexity of the drawings depends on the complexity of your project. If your project is in a designated Landmarks District, your permit application will have to be reviewed by the City of Cleveland Planning Commission and Landmarks Commission. Small improvements may only need a staff review while larger improvements may require a presentation to a local design review committee or the Planning or Landmarks Commission. You will be required to schedule an inspection at certain times during construction. In Cleveland, permitting questions can be answered by contacting the Department of Building and Housing, City Hall, 601 Lakeside Avenue, Room 505, (216) 664-2282. If you are hiring a contractor to build something that requires a permit, you are encouraged to have them apply on your behalf so they retain liability for their work. Visit these websites for more information on zoning & permitting in the City of Cleveland: On-Line Permitting Guide: http://www.city.cleveland.oh.us/CityofCleveland/Home/ Government/CityAgencies/BuildingHousing/PermitGuide Building Code Law and Fee Schedule: http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/clevelandcodes/cco_part3_3105.html NEW Building Codes for Agriculture Uses in Residential Areas: http://planning.city.cleveland.oh.us/zoning/pdf/337-02%20UrbanAgricultureinResidential.pdf NEW Building Codes for Keeping Small Farm Animals: http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/clevelandcodes/cco_part3_347.html
place the call, the local utility companies will visit your site marking the location of underground lines. The service is free of charge. However, if you dont call before you dig and damage is caused, you are responsible for the full cost of repairs. Call 1-800-362-2764 or 8-1-1 or visit http://www.oups.org/
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
Installation: Shovels, rakes, hoses, small garden tools, access to a roto-tiller. Power tools may be needed to anchor sheds to the ground or construct beds. Maintenance: Lawn mower, weed whacker, rakes, shovels, wheel barrow, hoses, small garden tools, access to a roto-tiller.
FENCING
The decision to add a fence around the lot depends on many factors. When making this decision it is important to discuss the following factors with your project team & the neighbors living around the site: Project Budget: Does your budget allow for fencing? Fence costs vary greatly on the type of fence, height of the fence, size of lot, size of entry gate and the presence or absence of underground debris. Typically chain link and wood picket fences are lower in cost then wrought iron, aluminum or wood stockade fences. Keep in mind that most municipalities restrict the type and height of fences in residential and commercial areas. To determine if your budget allows for a fence, it is recommended that you call a local contractor for an on-site visit and quote. Once you have determined the cost of the fence, weigh it against the amount of investment going into the site (furnishings, plants, trees, sheds, etc.). How Public Is Your Project? Is the space meant to be private, semi-private with restricted access or open to the general public? Projects such as rain gardens, pocket parks and native plant gardens are typically planned as public spaces and not generally fenced. Depending on the adjacent land uses, fencing or tall shrubs are sometimes used to shield neighbors from noise and pedestrian traffic. Community and market gardens may be considered private or public places. Those planning and maintaining the site should determine whether or not a fence is needed. Many gardeners opt to install fences, large stones and/or brambles along the street edge of their gardens to discourage loitering and pedestrian traffic.
modern development or plants that were naturalized over many generations. Native plants are accustomed to our natural weather patterns, soil types and wildlife. Simultaneously our local environment depends on native plants for many reasons. Native plants absorb and filter storm water before it reaches our lakes and rivers. The wildlife in our region depends on native plants for food, shelter and mating grounds. And native plants filter pollution, such as carbon dioxide from the air. During their first growing season native plant gardens require the same amount of maintenance as traditional landscapes. They must be watered, weeded and mulched. However, because they have adapted to our natural environment, once native plant gardens are established they require less maintenance than traditional landscapes. Native plants never require the use of chemical based fertilizers a main source of local water pollution. To choose the right native plants for your project, you must consider sun exposure, water flow on and off your site, and soil characteristics. Refer to the Resources Section of this book for local expert advice.
Id always thought that I was waiting for someone to come and change things - but what I really learned was that I was waiting for myself. Bevelynn Bravo
VINEYARD
Sample site size 12,000 sq. ft.
COST ESTIMATES
construction site grading landscape materials compost topsoil 20-20-20 fertilizer (25 lb. bag) plant materials frontenac grape vines traminetle grape vines furnishings wood garden shed trellis materials (posts, wire, and fasteners) drip irrigation system (not including spigol & meter) subtotal cost contingency 10% TOTAL PROJECT COST
$300 $0.37/s.f. $1,000 $3.95/each $3.95/each $20/cu. yd. $20/cu. yd. $39
units
total cost
TBD
IDEAL LOCATION A large lot or a few adjacent vacant lots where future development is not planned. Vineyards are best situated in areas with good air circulation and full sun exposure. BENEFITS AND OPPORTUNITIES Depending on the scale of the project, a vineyard can provide economic opportunities for
the neighborhood. As the project develops, it may become a location that attracts tourists and business to the neighborhood in which it is located.
15 38 2
LEVEL OF COMMUNITY COMMITMENT NEEDED This project requires a high level of teamwork to install the trellis and irrigation systems.
Once the vineyard is planted it will only require a few people who are dedicated to making the project a success for years to come. Maintenance will include regular litter pick-up, frequent watering and seasonal fertilizing and pruning. Caring for vineyards is more difficult than other gardens, so involving an expert grower early on will make for a more successful project.
140 34
$553 $135
$1,000 $1,350
Depending on the purpose of your site, level of public access desired and surrounding land uses, fencing should be considered. Fencing costs vary according to site conditions, length and style.
10
11
ORCHARD
Sample site size 34,000 sq. ft.
COST ESTIMATES
construction site grading walkway/paving materials compacted crushed gravel landscape materials compost mulch plant materials apple tree - goldrush whip apple tree - enterprise whip apple tree - jonomac whip apple tree - macintosh whip apple tree - liberty whip peach tree - red haven whip cherry tree - montmorency whip cherry tree - compact stella whip strawberry early glow bush strawberry everbearing bush raspberry carolina bramble raspberry ann bramble blackberry arapaho bramble furnishings wood garden shed subtotal cost contingency 10% $1,000 $0.10/s.f. 1 $1,000 $3,380 $338 $3,718 $25 $25 $25 $26 $25 $25 $24 $24 $9 $9 $14 $15 $14 6 6 5 5 5 5 5 5 10 10 5 5 4 $150 $150 $125 $130 $125 $125 $120 $120 $90 $90 $70 $75 $56 $24/cu. yd. $35/cu. yd. 22 4 $528 $140 $26/cu. yd. 11 $286 contingent on site conditions TBD
units
total cost
IDEAL LOCATION A minimum of two lots (8,000 sq. ft.) where future development is not planned. To avoid frost and freezing conditions, orchards are best situated atop a ridge or high
ground as compared to a valley. Fruit trees do best in areas that receive direct sunlight throughout most of the day.
BENEFITS AND OPPORTUNITIES This project will provide food and engage neighbors for generations to come. Many
community activities can be planned around the orchard as it begins to bear fruit. (Think apple cider and jam-making parties!) The chance to share recipes and traditions among neighbors and establish and/or increase community dialogue around healthy, local food selection and production. Add a community inspired mural, horseshoe pit, gazebo, picnic tables or outdoor chess table to create a neighborhood gathering space.
LEVEL OF COMMUNITY COMMITMENT NEEDED This project requires a group of people who will be committed to its success for years
to come. Maintenance will include regular litter pick-up and seasonal mowing. During the first year watering will be required. Fruit trees require annual spraying and pruning. It is helpful to have someone experienced in tree care with whom to consult.
Materials list is modeled from the ReImagining Cleveland Brooklyn Centre Community Orchard. Note that the fence and arbor are not included in sample budget.
View showing the orchard layout; prepared by Brooklyn Centre Orchard volunteers
Left: Rev. Brenda Taylor Rasario and Ray Rasario; Right: Gennesareth II Orchard
13
MARKET GARDEN
Sample site size 14,400 sq. ft. Total growing space 5,687 sq. ft
COST ESTIMATES
construction site grading landscape materials compost mulch (can be substituted with low cost or donated wood chips) plant materials dwarf fruit trees annual seed costs seed (dependent on number of plantings in each bed and variety of seeds) furnishings wood garden shed subtotal cost contingency 10%
$1,000 $300-$1,000 $50 $20/cu. yd. $28/cu. yd.
IDEAL LOCATION Multiple adjacent parcels in a residential or commercial area that is unlikely to be
units total cost
TBD
BENEFITS AND OPPORTUNITIES Economic opportunities for market gardeners. If produce is sold on site or nearby, the garden provides healthy eating options to the
community.
35 17
$700 $476
THINGS TO CONSIDER Previous vegetable gardening experience and/or training is recommended for project
leaders. Unlike a community garden, participants are growing food to sell and should plan on running the garden as a business. Soil testing is an important first step to ensure that daily contact with bare soil will not pose health risks to gardeners or neighbors. (See previous section on Things to Consider) Site conditions such as soil type (compacted, clay, sandy, etc.), southern sun exposure and access to water should be considered.
10
$500
annually
$650
$0.23/s.f.
LEVEL OF COMMUNITY COMMITMENT NEEDED Depending on the size of the garden, this project requires a number of people who
will be committed to dedicating a significant amount of time to maintaining the project, particularly during the growing season from March through October.
Depending on the purpose of your site, level of public access desired and surrounding land uses, fencing should be considered. Fencing costs vary according to site conditions, length and style.
14
Plan showing the market garden layout; prepared by Urban Growth Farms
15
COMMUNITY GARDEN
Sample site size 4,800 sq. ft. Total growing space 1,536 sq. ft. 12 plots with 128 sq. ft. of growing space each
COST ESTIMATES
construction site grading landscape materials planting mix (can be substituted with less expensive topsoil with organic compost content) mulch for pathways (can be substituted with low cost or donated wood chips.) raised growing beds 8 x 2 x 12 fir timbers 16 x 2 x 12 fir timbers 8 x 4 x 4 fir timbers (if your budget allows, fir timbers can be substituted with cedar) hardware for bed construction plant materials* fruit trees furnishings wood garden shed subtotal cost contingency 10% total project cost
$1,000 $25 $11.27 $23.39 $12.50 $30/cu. yd.
IDEAL LOCATION Very near an elementary school, senior living home and/or apartments or homes with
units total cost
small yards. The number of willing participants should determine the size of the garden and the number of adjacent vacant lots.
TBD
BENEFITS AND OPPORTUNITIES This project provides the opportunity for people who have limited yard space to grow
vegetables and herbs. Community gathering space for residents and students. Healthy eating options for gardeners and their friends and family. A network of neighbors committed to increased health and quality of life.
60
$1,800
$28/cu. yd.
17
$476
THINGS TO CONSIDER Soil testing is an important first step to ensure that daily contact with bare soil will
not pose health risks to gardeners or neighbors. (See previous section on Things to Consider.) Site conditions such as soil type (compacted, clay, sandy, etc), southern sun exposure and access to water should be considered. For lots with buried debris or poor soil, raised beds should be considered.
24 48 18
$100
$75
LEVEL OF COMMUNITY COMMITMENT NEEDED This project requires a number of committed community members who will spend
approximately 5 hours per week tending the garden during the growing season. Several individuals will need to take on leadership roles to coordinate the logistics and maintenance of the garden during the growing season. Maintenance may include regular litter pick-up, mowing, and weeding of common areas. Individual plots will need to be tilled, planted, watered, weeded and harvested throughout the growing season. Community gardens require an annual source for plants and soil amendments. Many gardens charge a small plot fee to cover these costs.
$1.06/s.f.
$5,577
* Vegetables and herbs can be purchased by the group or individually. Programs such as the City of Cleveland Summer Sprout Program provide free vegetable plants to participating community gardens. For more information visit: http://cuyahoga.osu.edu/topics/agricultureand-natural-resources/summer-sprout
16
1 2 3 4
1 2
Plan showing the community garden layout; prepared by Urban Growth Farms
4 3
SIDEYARD EXPANSION
Sample site size 4,560 sq. ft. with a frontage of 38 ft.
OPTION 1 - LAND BANK LOT IS COMBINED WITH ONE ADJACENT PROPERTY OPTION 2 - LAND BANK LOT IS SPLIT AND APPENDED TO TWO ADJACENT PROPERTIES
COST ESTIMATES
construction site grading plant materials magnolia galaxy tree furnishings wood picket fencing (optional) lot consolidation lot purchase property transfer fees and county recording fee paid to city of cleveland professional survey of property and adjacent vacant lot city of cleveland division of engineering and construction survey review deed preperation recording the consolidated plot map with cuyahoga county recorders office recording of the consolidated deed with cuyahoga county recorders office subtotal cost contingency 5%
units
total cost
units
total cost
TBD
TBD
$150
$300
$150
$300
If you live next to a vacant lot, you may be able to access the vacant lot to extend your side yard or formally split it with your neighbor. The first thing you must do is research the ownership of the lot by entering the address into the Cuyahoga County Auditors website (http://auditor. cuyahogacounty.us/repi/default.asp). If an individual or company owns the property, contact the owner for permission to use the lot. If the City of Cleveland Land bank owns the property, often times you can purchase the lot from the City. The sale price is contingent on the size of lot. NonBuildable lots with a frontage of less than 40 ft. cost $1 and lots with a frontage of 40 ft. or greater cost $10 per ft. of frontage. For example, a lot with a 50 ft. frontage would cost $500. Upon purchasing a vacant lot from the City of Clevelands Land Bank for yard expansion, it is strongly recommended that the lot should be consolidated with the owners existing property. In doing so, the County Auditor will assign one parcel number for tax identification purposes. This is an advantage to the owner because it ensures the property will be treated as a single parcel in the event of a future sale, bank financing or planned improvements. In order for City permits to be issued for planned improvements, consolidation of the parcels must first be completed. To begin the process of purchasing a City of Cleveland Land Bank lot, one or both neighbors must complete a Side Yard Expansion application. Contact the City of Cleveland, Community Development Department, Division of Real Estate, (216) 664-4126.
180
$3,060
180
$3,060
$1 $70
$1
$2 _
$1,500 $200
$100 $0.10/sq. in. of plat map - 40 minimum $28 /2 pages of the deed & 8 for each addl. page $0.98/s.f.
$100 $45
$100 approx. $45 (0.10/sq. in. of plat map - 40 minimum) approx. $70 (28 /2 pages of the deed & 8 for each addl. page) $1.20/s.f.
2 2
$200 $90
$70
$140
$5,492 $275
$2,883/neighbor
$5,767
BENEFITS AND OPPORTUNITIES Provides space for larger yards, expanded greenspace,
gardens or a driveway.
18
1 2
1 lawn expansion 2 trees, shrubs 3 fence
THINGS TO CONSIDER The homeowner(s) taking ownership of the lot should have the interest and resources
to maintain their properties. The homeowner taking ownership of the lot must not have code violations and must be current on all property tax assessments.
LEVEL OF COMMUNITY COMMITMENT NEEDED This project requires very little community commitment to install and maintain. However,
the Land Bank application process incorporates input from City staff, local design review committees and the Councilperson, whose authorization is needed for the land bank sale. Maintenance will include typical yard maintenance.
Diane Stimely & Dianne Krnc are planning a sideyard expansion between their properites
19
units
total cost
IDEAL LOCATION A vacant lot in an area where development may occur in the foreseeable future. BENEFITS AND OPPORTUNITIES Multiple vacant lots in one area can be planted with the same design adding a unified feel to
the street or block. A low cost beautification strategy for neighbors and visitors to enjoy. Discourages illegal activities such as debris dumping.
1.5 3
$38 $105
1 12 3 1 3 6 12 1
$30 $96 $105 $150 $30 $48 $96 $50 $748 $75
$823
THINGS TO CONSIDER If possible, trees should be planted strategically along the front of the lot so if development
occurs the trees will not have to be relocated in order to build.
LEVEL OF COMMUNITY COMMITMENT NEEDED This project requires a medium level of community involvement to install. Once the plants
are established, it requires a low to medium level of involvement depending on the size of the lot and landscape design. Choose drought tolerant, hardy perennials and grasses to reduce maintenance needs. Maintenance will include regular litter pick-up and seasonal mowing. During the first year, weekly deep watering will be required. Depending on your plant selection, periodic mulching may be required.
units
total cost
TBD
1.5 0.5
$38 $18
1 2 1 3
Depending on the purpose of your site, level of public access desired and surrounding land uses, fencing should be considered. Fencing costs vary according to site conditions, length and style.
20
Option 1
Option 1
Option 2
Option 2 Streetedge improvement options; prepared by Plan it Green Designs LLC. Plans showing the layouts for streetedge improvement; prepared by Plan it Green Designs LLC.
Marlane Weslian
21
NEIGHBORHOOD PATHWAY
Sample site size 20,000 sq. ft.
COST ESTIMATES
construction site grading
IDEAL LOCATION
An area where blocks are very long and vacant parcels can be used to create a walkway mid block. The project space should be a minimum of two lots wide and two lots deep. Large vacant parcels on the corner that already serve as informal walkways.
TBD
walkway/paving materials compacted crushed gravel landscape materials topsoil plant materials 4 upright shrub, viburnum 6 flowering tree, flwg. plum wildflowers furnishings waste receptacle subtotal cost contingency 10%
$600 ea. $0.38/s.f. $40 ea. $95 ea. $0.20/s.f. $20/cu. yd. $26/cu. yd.
63
$1,638
THINGS TO CONSIDER
20
$400
80 12 500
Creating a design that allows neighbors to see from one end of the pathway to the other will make this an appealing place to walk. Depending on the site, solar lighting should be considered. Because pedestrian traffic may be directed through a residential area, neighbors living on all sides of the project should be consulted and in support of the project.
$8,446
Depending on the purpose of your site, level of public access desired and surrounding land uses, fencing should be considered. Fencing costs vary according to site conditions, length and style.
22
1 2
Volunteers working on the construction of a pathway through the Brooklyn Centre Orchard
23
POCKET PARK
Sample site size 4,000 sq. ft.
COST ESTIMATES
construction site grading walkway/paving materials compacted crushed gravel landscape materials topsoil plant materials woodland edge seed mix native plant seedlings 8 evergreen - spruce, fir 6 flowering tree - flowering plum furnishings waste receptacle 4 commercial garden bench subtotal cost contingency 10%
$600 $590 $1.39/s.f. $0.31/s.f $20/cu. yd. $26/cu. yd.
IDEAL LOCATION Vacant lot on residential street or unbuildable odd shaped lot on a commercial street
cost per unit units total cost
TBD
BENEFITS AND OPPORTUNITIES Community gathering space for neighbors or a passive green space that beautifies the
neighborhood. Add a community inspired mural, horseshoe pit, gazebo, picnic tables, or outdoor chess table for all to enjoy.
34
$884
44
$880
THINGS TO CONSIDER If the lot is between two buildings, then plants selected for this project will need to
thrive in the shade. Ideally, if your budget allows, the side and rear edges of a pocket park should have fencing, hedges, or other screening to buffer adjacent land owners from noise and activity in the park.
500 10 8 3
$105/flat
$137 $95
LEVEL OF COMMUNITY COMMITMENT NEEDED This project requires a high level of teamwork during the installation and throughout
the life of the project. It is important to get a group of people together who will be responsible for the long-term upkeep of the park. This could be an informal group of neighbors, a block club, a church group or a community development corporation. Maintenance will include regular litter pick-up and seasonal mowing and pruning. Until plants are established, weekly deep watering will be required. Depending on your plant selection, seasonal mulching may be required.
1 1
$6,094
Depending on the purpose of your site, level of public access desired and surrounding land uses, fencing should be considered. Fencing costs vary according to site conditions, length and style.
24
1 2 3 4
1 2 3 4
Plan showing a pocket park layout View showing a pocket park layout
Akanni Thomas
25
NATIVE PLANTING
Sample site size 4,000 sq. ft.
COST ESTIMATES
construction site grading landscape materials topsoil straw mulch cardboard (sq. ft.) plant materials * native grasses and wildflower seed mix for 1/10 acre (smallest quantity available) woodland, shrubland, prarie perennials native trees furnishings educational signage subtotal cost contingency 10%
$1.17/s.f. $300 $4670 $467 $140 $20/cu. yd. $5/bale $28/cu. yd.
TBD
BENEFITS AND OPPORTUNITIES By using plants naturally found in Ohio, this project provides a habitat for birds,
butterflies, and other wildlife. The root systems of native plants help soil absorb water, which helps to reduce erosion and runoff and improves local water quality. Native plants help clean the air and water by absorbing and processing pollutants. Add benches, bird houses, and plant identification signage to create a community gathering space and a place to educate visitors on the value of natural urban spaces.
20 200 40 5000
$140
THINGS TO CONSIDER It is recommended to build soil by sheet mulching (cold composting). Sheet mulching
involves layering topsoil, mulch and cardboard over the existing ground. The layers must cure for at least 8 weeks. It is best to sheet mulch in fall and plant in early spring. Selecting a native plant mix that grows to a limited height will ensure that this project is low maintenance. Native plantings do best on sunny lots; some shade can be utilized with the correct plant selection. Avoid lots that are overrun with invasive or non-native plants. While it is illegal to remove native plants from public parks, native plant rescue groups organize legal plant rescue events from public and private property. Contact the Earth Day Coalition for more information. Once you have a native plant garden, you can begin seed collection, propagation and plant sharing.
$10 $240
75 4
$750 $960
$5,137
LEVEL OF COMMUNITY COMMITMENT NEEDED This project requires a high level of teamwork at the time of preparation, installation, and until
* Choose plant types based on sun exposure and soil moisture. Depending on the purpose of your site, level of public access desired and surrounding land uses, fencing should be considered. Fencing costs vary according to site conditions, length and style.
the plants are established in the first growing season. Native plants are adapted to northeast Ohios local conditions and are easier to grow and maintain once they are established. Maintenance will include litter pick-up and seasonal trimming. Until plants are established, a weekly deep watering is necessary, unless one inch of rain has fallen. Depending on plant selection seasonal mulching may be required.
For information on native plant park design, sheet mulching and plant/tree selection, visit the Earth Day Coalition Naturehood website: www.earthdaycoalition.org/naturehood_main.php
26
Naturehood volunteers
RAIN GARDEN
Sample site size 4,000 sq. ft. Rain Garden size is 300 sq. ft.
COST ESTIMATES
construction site grading landscape materials Bioretention rain garden soil mix mulch plant materials Rain garden plant kit (available for sunny and shaded garden) 12 shade tree-river birch, maple 6 flowering tree-flowering plum furnishings Piping for downspout connections from adjacent homes (optional, depends on distance) subtotal cost contingency 10%
$0.26/s.f. $120/100 s.f. $45/cu. yd. $35/cu. yd.
IDEAL LOCATION A vacant lot with a neighbor who will divert their downspouts to the rain garden area.
cost per unit units total cost
BENEFITS AND OPPORTUNITIES Rain gardens trap stormwater allowing it to seep back into the ground or nearby
waterways instead of overwhelming storm sewer systems and nearby streams. Rain gardens planted with native plants provide needed habitat for insects and birds and are beautiful year round. Rain gardens help to filter contaminated stormwater from roofs, driveways and parking lots before it enters back into natural waterways. Add benches to create a resting place and birdhouses and plant identification signage to educate neighbors and passersby.
TBD
4 2
$180 $70
$360
THINGS TO CONSIDER Diverting stormwater has many benefits. However, proper planning and construction
of downspout disconnects is very important. Incorrect construction can lead to flooded yards or wet foundations. To ensure proper construction, the City of Cleveland requires a permit to disconnect your downspout. Permits can be obtained from the Department of Building and Housing, Division of Construction Permitting. Utility fees for the Northeastern Ohio Regional Sewer District are rising. Contact the Sewer District to learn about incentives for homeowners that disconnect their downspouts and reduce impervious surfaces on their property. http://www.neorsd.org/
$225 $95
1 2
$225 $190
TBD
$1,025 $103
$1,128
LOCATING AND SIZING YOUR RAIN GARDEN Consult the Rain Garden Manual for Homeowners for more detailed information
http://www.cuyahogaswcd.org/PDFs/RainGardenManual.pdf Rain gardens should not be within 10 ft. of your home. Creating a rain garden requires some excavation, so be sure to avoid trees and tree roots. If the lot collects water, the rain garden should not be in the natural depression. Instead it should be located just up the slope to trap the water before it collects in the depression. For areas with sandy soils, determine the size of your rain garden using a 5:1 ratio. Determine the surface area that will drain into your garden (sq. ft. of roof) and divide it by 5 to get the square footage of your garden. For example, if 500 sq. ft of your roof will drain into the garden, then the garden should be 100 sq. ft. For areas with compacted, poorly drained or clay soils, use a 2:1 ratio.
Materials list is based on projects completed by the Cuyahoga County Soil and Water Conservation District. Depending on the purpose of your site, level of public access desired and surrounding land uses, fencing should be considered. Fencing costs vary according to site conditions, length and style.
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Melissa Miller
The depth of your rain garden is determined by the slope of the property. Gardens in vacant lots with a very slight slope should be 3 to 5 inches deep, medium slope should be 5 to 7 inches and lots with a larger slope should be 8 to 12 inches deep. The lot should have a slope no greater than 12% to prevent your rain garden from washing away.
LEVEL OF COMMUNITY COMMITMENT NEEDED This project takes about 6 to 10 volunteers to install the garden by hand in one day.
Once the garden is installed it requires limited community involvement. Neighbors on either side of the lot can easily maintain the garden once it is installed. Maintenance may include regular litter pick-up, mowing (around the garden), and seasonal trimming and mulching. Until the plants are established, bi-weekly watering may be necessary.
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USES
Food Cellar: The Cleveland Urban Design Collaborative, in collaboration with CW Waterworks and other research partners, are currently exploring the potential of a BioCellar to extend the growing season for crops as an upgrade to hoop houses. Using a BioCellar for regular crops can extend the season by two weeks in spring and two weeks in fall, adding four weeks to the normal 16 week season. However, if cool-season crops are grown in the BioCellar it can extend the growing season to about 32 weeks a year for a much higher economic impact. Root cellar: Another possible food related use could be to convert a section of the BioCellar into a root cellar, as a part of an urban farm to store food at a low temperature and steady humidity. A root cellar keeps produce from freezing during the winter and keeps it cool during the summer to prevent spoilage. A favorable interior environment makes food production an obvious use for the BioCellar, but it also opens up possibilities for other uses like energy production, composting, animal rearing, community center, etc.
Roof vents Galvanized steel tubing for roof structure Double glazing
LOCATION CRITERIA
The following criteria should guide site selection for a BioCellar:
Curtains for heat retention Reflective lining on the North wall
King beam I-beam central post C-beam frame Waterproofing around the base of the BioCellar Short shrubs along the South wall
Building orientation: No buildings, trees or other structures shoould obstruct the southern side of the BioCellar structure. Also, the longer wall of the BioCellar should face within 20 of true south. The bottom of the structure should be at least 5 above the water table, as water seepage can be a major issue for the basement. It should be ideally located within 1/4 mile of a public transit stop. For food production uses, the structure should be located within 1/4 mile radius of community gardens and/or urban farms. Adjacency to vacant land is preferred for BioCellars that need open land for supplementary uses. Collaboration with a local champion (community group or CDC) is advisable for the success of the project.
URBAN SAVANNAH
Oak Savannas are unique plant communities that used to cover much of the mid-west before modern development. Aside from beautiful Oak trees, they are characterized by a wide diversity of perennial grasses and wildflowers. Urban savannas are good for our environment because they capture stormwater, cool the surrounding micro-climate and provide needed habitat for insects, birds and small mammals. As native landscapes, they remain attractive year-round. Urban savannas can be used as passive or educational spaces and require limited maintenance once trees and plants are established.
Newly planted urban savannah in the Slavic Village neighborhood
FOREST RAINGARDEN
Mature Midwestern Oak Savanna Photos by: Thomas D. Brock, University of Wisconsin-Madison
A forest rain garden captures stormwater and allows it to infiltrate into the ground instead of rushing into and overwhelming nearby waterways. Forest rain gardens are similar to standard rain gardens, except that they are larger and include a successive variety of plants, including trees. The Ashurst Project in University Heights, Ohio, demonstrates stormwater management using bioretention and swales. It has a 190-foot stone filled trench, fishtail berm and swale constructs. The plantscape directs, detains, and allows rainwater to infiltrate into the soil. The rain garden includes plants that have compatible moisture requirements, provide appropriate ecological services for urban wildlife and provide aesthetics for residents. Novel to the project is the use of directed rain garden succession design featuring native plantstrees, shrubs, and perennials. This project is designed by CW Waterworks with support from the Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, and is located at 2603 Ashurst Road.
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Ashurst Stormwater Management Demonstration Project, University Heights, OH Photos by: Jean Loria
PUBLIC ART
Public art can enhance our greenspaces in many ways. Important benefits of most public artwork are beautification of its surroundings and beauty for its own sake, but it can also strengthen the identity of a place or call attention to a community project (or perhaps one important part of a project), and, especially when working with a tight budget, it can be called upon to function in practical ways. For example, there is no reason a rain barrel or a birdhouse cannot also be a work of art, and sitting down to rest on an artist-designed bench could certainly become a memorable experience. There is almost no creative endeavor that cannot benefit from artwork or the skillful hands of an artist!
Images showing public art as a component of vacant land enhancement strategies
This document details a few ideas for vacant lot reuse, but the possibilities of how vacant land can be repurposed to improve the quality of life in our neighborhoods and health of our environment are endless. Besides basic greening and gardens, vacant lots can be used for in-fill housing development, or to add a needed driveway and garage to a home in a high density area without off-street parking. They can be used for energy generation through the installation of solar energy or geothermal systems that pull clean energy from the sun and earth. Vacant lots can also be used for temporary play spaces with mini-soccer fields, seasonal ice rinks or even pop up dog parks. With creativity, passion, perseverance and partnerships anything is possible!
Parking lot in Tremont neighborhood designed by URS Corp. to provide bio-retention areas for managing stormwater; Illustration by: Katherine Holmok, URS Corporation
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STEPS
The best place to obtain ownership information is the Cuyahoga County Auditors web site. You can find it at: http://auditor.cuyahogacounty.us/repi/default.asp. The City of Cleveland maintains an online data base of city-owned land bank parcels at: http:// cd.city.cleveland.oh.us/scripts/cityport.php Using the Trust for Public Lands online Ohio Green Print at http://wwwohiogreenprint. org you can map all of the vacant lots in your neighborhood plus learn about soils, vegetation, neighborhood demographics and much more. Take a walk around the site several times at different times of the day. Take note of sun exposure, lot size, how neighboring plots are used, drainage of stormwater and other features such as trees, fences and sinkholes. Once you have learned about the site, think about the best way to use this land. The Cleveland City Planning Departments Land Use Decision Tree will be helpful. The Decision Tree is part of the ReImagining A More Sustainable Cleveland Vacant Land Reuse Study. You can find it online at: http://www.cudc.kent.edu/shrink/Images/ reimagining_final_screen-res.pdf Set up a meeting with a representative from your local community development corporation (CDC). See the Resources section to identify the appropriate CDC. Ask the CDC about the long-term land use plan for the site and request help setting up a visioning session and coming up with a list of steps needed to complete your project.
2. PLAN A VISIONING SESSION A visioning session is a meeting to come up with ideas about how you want your final project to turn out.
Pick a date and time that will allow most people to attend. Early evening is usually best. Invite a representative from your CDC, your councilperson, and your neighborhoods city planner. Call (216) 664-2210 to find out who your planner is. Create a flyer for your meeting and use it to invite as many neighbors as possible. Be sure to include people who live next to the site and those who will use the site. You can also distribute flyers though the CDC, schools, churches and neighborhood businesses, etc.
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Gather what you will need for the session: a sign-in sheet to gather contact information (name, phone number, email and street addresses), markers, poster or flip chart paper and pictures of the site.
Simmons Park opening event
Be sure to have everyone sign in. Have everyone briefly introduce themselves and share why they are interested in the project. Introduce the opportunity of reusing vacant land in a way that will be positive for neighborhood residents. Share what youve learned about the site from your online research and from your observations. Distribute copies of the Re-imagining Cleveland Ideas to Action Resource Book to help people think about ways to reuse vacant land. Ask for a volunteer to record the group discussion. Lead the discussion with questions like: i. What challenges do we currently have in the neighborhood? ii. How might improving this land help us with those challenges? iii. Who can benefit from this space? How can we get more neighbors involved? iv. What do we want to see in this space? (community gardens, benches, home for wildlife, open space) How do we want it to look? Decide on what type of project the group wants and what elements to include. Then continue the discussion with questions like: i. What resources do we already have in place? ii. What resources do we need to make our project happen? iii. How will we maintain the project once it is built? List all possible volunteer roles needed to complete the project. Be sure to include writing grant applications, recruiting volunteers, organizing the work on the site, and short/long term maintenance tasks. Ask for a core group of volunteers to form an action committee who will help to organize and move the project forward. Thank everyone for coming to the session and let them know what the next steps will be.
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3. HOLD A FOLLOW-UP MEETING to plan the design and details of your project.
Get help from the resource organizations that work with your type of project. See the listings in the Resources section of this booklet. Look at the project ideas and designs in this book and at other current projects on the ReImaginingCleveland.org website. You can also sketch out your own plan based on ideas from your visioning session. Come up with a budget. This book will be a helpful starting point but be sure to doublecheck cost estimates from suppliers since prices change over time. Also, keep in mind that most land re-use grants ask applicants to match what theyre asking for with either in-kind donations or a financial match. Decide how to raise money and solicit donations for the project. Find suggestions for funding in the Resources section. Set a time line for your project. Create an implementation and maintenance plan and schedule for doing your project. Be sure to include how the project will be maintained after it is finished. See the Things to Consider portion of this book. Plan out the details: i. What needs to be done? ii. What permits will be needed? iii. Who will install the project? iv. Who will maintain the project? How often? v. How will the maintenance schedule change with the seasons?
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Identify a non-profit organization to be your fiscal agent for any project grants you receive. Often neighborhood CDCs take on this role. Ask your CDC contact person if they would be willing to do this. Be sure to discuss what is expected on their part and yours.
4. START WORK ON YOUR PROJECT and keep neighbors involved in the process
Distribute copies of a flyer or newsletter with the design plan and important meetings and work days. Ask for volunteers and donations. Remember there are lots of people who hate meetings but will gladly show up for work days. If possible, have a few mini-events in advance to build a buzz for your big project work days. Think about a picnic on the site, a litter clean-up or a mini-fundraiser. You might even be able to get the neighborhood kids involved with a lemonade stand to make money for the project. If you are receiving grant funding, work with your CDC representative or a technical assistance organization to purchase supplies. Or if you are working with all donated materials, create a system for picking them up or having them delivered. Have clear communications with all volunteers so you have them at your site for the work days. Hold your volunteer work day(s). Be sure to end it with food and refreshments to celebrate your great work. Continue to maintain the site according to your plan. You may want to schedule a follow-up meeting to discuss how the work day(s) went and how site maintenance is going. Discuss any possible changes you need to make to your maintenance plan.
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These are some resources for advice, assistance, information, materials and funding to help you accomplish your project. No endorsement is implied for businesses listed, and no discrimination is intended of businesses not listed.
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
City of Cleveland Planning Commission Land use planning http://planning.city.cleveland.oh.us/ Phone: (216) 664-2210 Call the main number and ask to speak to your neighborhood planner. Neighborhood Community Development Corporations (CDC) For a listing of CDCs and their service areas visit: http://www.nhlink.net/ OR call the Cleveland Neighborhood Development Coalition Phone: (216) 928-8100
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Local Food Cleveland an E4S Action Network Network of community gardeners, urban farmers, bee keepers and local food advocates http://www.localfoodcleveland.org/
The Green Triangle Permaculture technical assistance and volunteer recruitment http://thegreentriangle.com/ Contact: Nick Swetye Email: nick@greentri.org Phone: (330) 221-4027 The Native Plant Society of Northeast Ohio Local chapter of the Ohio Native Plant Society that promotes the use of native plants and organizes native plant rescues and educational events. http://nativeplantsocietyneohio.org/
Cuyahoga County Soil and Water Conservation District Information and technical assistance on soil retention, rain barrel workshops and rain garden design and installation http://www.cuyahogaswcd.org/ Rain garden manual for homeowners - http://www. cuyahogaswcd.org/PDFs/RainGardenManual.pdf Contact: Todd Houser Email: thouser@cuyahogaswcd.org Phone: (216) 524-6584
FUNDING RESOURCES
CityWorks Grant Program Cleveland Department of Community Development http://www.city.cleveland.oh.us/portal/page/portal/ CityofCleveland/Home/Government/CityAgencies/ CommunityDevelopment/CityWorks Contact: Donna Harris Email: Dharris@city.cleveland.oh.us Phone: (216) 664-4100 Gardening for Greenbacks (for market gardens/urban farms) Cleveland Department of Economic Development http://www.city.cleveland.oh.us/CityofCleveland/Home/ Government/CityAgencies/EconomicDevelopment/Small BusinessandRetail#gardening Contact: Ifeoma Ezepue Email: iezepue@city.cleveland.oh.us Phone: (216) 664-3622
RAIN GARDENS, RAIN BARRELS, BIOSWALES AND OTHER STORMWATER MANAGEMENT RESOURCES TRAINING AND ADVICE
City of Cleveland Office of Sustainability Information on local sustainability programs and issues including stormwater and the use of rain barrrels http://www.city.cleveland.oh.us/CityofCleveland/Home/ Government/CityAgencies/PublicUtilities/Sustainability Email: awatterson@city.cleveland.oh.us Phone: (216) 664-2444 Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District Information and technical assistance on stormwater capture http://www.neorsd.org/rainworkingforyou.php#house Contact: Linda Mayer Mack Email: mackl@neorsd.org Phone: (216) 881-6600
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Neighborhood Connections http://www.neighborhoodgrants.org/ Email: neighborhoodconnections@clevefdn.org Phone: (216) 393-4640 Cleveland Colectivo http://www.clevelandcolectivo.org/ Email: info@clevelandcolectivo.org
Email: ckious@apieceofcleveland.com Phone: (216) 361-9930 Habitat for Humanity ReStore Deconstruction materials and used tools http://www.gchfh.org/Restore/index.html Address: 2110 W. 110th Street Cleveland, Ohio 44102 Phone number: (216) 429-1299
TOOLS TO BORROW
Community Housing Solutions http://commhousingsolutions.org/ Email: info@commhousingsolutions.org Two Locations: East side 12114 Larchmere Blvd. Cleveland, OH 44120 Phone: (216) 231-5815 West side 1967 W. 45th Street Cleveland, OH 44102 Phone: (216) 651-0077
BUILDING MATERIALS
A Piece of Cleveland Deconstruction and demolition materials (bricks, stones, wood, etc.) http://www.apieceofcleveland.com/ Contact: Chris Kious
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HYDRANT EQUIPMENT
Sutton Hardware http://suttonhardware.com/ Address: 3848 Prospect Ave. Cleveland, Ohio 44115 Phone: (216) 696-8340 Lakeside Supply Address: 3000 West 117th Street Cleveland, Ohio 44111 Phone: (216) 941-6800
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Neighborhood Progress Re-imagining Cleveland Connect with neighbors implementing land reuse projects and initiatives in your community. http://www. reimaginingcleveland.org http://www.neighborhoodprogress.org GreenCityBlueLake An online community workspace where the people and organizations advancing sustainability in the region can tell their stories, learn from each other, and develop strategies to accelerate the progress. http://www.gcbl.org/
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Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones weve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek. - President Barack Obama